The name for 11.13 Ministries is taken from Jeremiah 29:11-13.

These verses were a reminder to the exiles in Babylon and also serve as a reminder to God’s people today in the midst of an uncertain circumstance. The temple in Jerusalem was gone...destroyed. God’s people in exile in a strange land were probably wondering where was their God. Had He forgotten them?

When this COVID pandemic first started, I was hearing the same thing expressed by some of my Christian friends…”Where is God in this? Has He forgotten us? Is He punishing me/us?”

Those Christian friends had forgotten that we are a people who are geographically away from our home. Our true homes are with the Lord. We are at home as members of the church…Christ’s body…regardless of where we live and regardless of the circumstance. We are in passage through this world as we live out our witness. The exiles were not removed from their place among God’s people…and neither are we.

God’s plan has not been thwarted. This pandemic…or any other circumstance…does not mean a momentary lapse in God’s attention to us. Jeremiah 29:11-13 reminds us of that truth.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13

Today, remember that there are no “coincidences.” Uncertainties and difficulties are opportunities to trust in God. Remember, that in every circumstance, He is working out His plans to prosper His people in faith and godliness, and to bring them home.